What does the Bible say about sin as a burden?

The Bible illustrates sin as a heavy burden, particularly in Psalm 38:4, where it is depicted as iniquities that have gone over one's head. This metaphor emphasizes how sin can overwhelm individuals, pressing down on their conscience and spiritual well-being. Hebrews 12:1 encourages believers to lay aside every weight and sin that easily besets them, indicating that sin is a significant impediment to their spiritual journey. The heaviness of sin is palpably felt by the Christian, contrasting sharply with the insensitivity of the unconverted sinner, who remains 'past feeling' and unaware of their dire state. This burden is not just a personal struggle but also a communal human condition that affects the believer's relationship with God.